We are in the new normal in the post-GE15 period, characterized by the post-pandemic economic recovery. The top three issues concerning Malaysians – namely political/financial corruption, inflation, and unemployment – have stabilized at their constant levels since January 2023.
Despite government attempts to rein in inflation, it remains persistent as the second most worrying concern in Malaysia every month since June 2022. Consumer purchase intentions for household and big-ticket items have been on a downward trend since the beginning of 2023.
Nonetheless, Malaysians continue to stay optimistic about their country's direction.
Nearly half of Malaysians believe they live in a meritocratic society, where success depends on individual ability and efforts. This contrasts with an opposing view, held by a quarter of the population, who believe that external factors beyond individual control condition success.
Malaysians, like other countries in Asia, have a positive attitude towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) and associated products and services. A younger population with the ability to adapt to the latest technology and the role technology plays in improving the quality of life in developing countries might be contributing to this outlook.
Majority of Malaysians believe that crime rates have remained steady compared to last year, with 25% of respondents reporting an increase in crime in their neighborhoods.
A NEW global study carried out in 29 countries by Ipsos in conjunction with World Refugee Day yesterday on 20th June 2023 shows that three in four adults on average across the countries surveyed support the principle of giving refuge to people escaping war or persecution. Moreover, a third reported that they have taken personal action in support of refugees in the past 12 months.
